The Logic of Baldwin's Argument

James Baldwin is a credible author in the short story, “If Black English Isn’t a Language, then Tell Me, What is?” because of his background of being involved in the Civil Rights Movement. He has also lived outside the United States; In France, where he has learned and experienced another’s way of living.

James argues the many classifications of language. Breaking language down into specific categories such as control, confronting life, political means of proof, and passion. He argues that the status or reality of Black English is not in fact the language itself, but the role it plays in revealing the speaker. There are about 7,330 languages that exist today. Each language has its own different interpretations that can be controlled. Although, there are many languages that make sure their language is not destroyed such as the Basque countries, and Wales. I find this interesting because I am Basque, and I know this is an extremely hard language to speak.

James is trying to prove that the Black language does in fact exist, and that it has helped to create white Americans language through passion, skill, intelligence, music, and achievement. He then makes a counter argument stating: “if this absolutely unprecedented journey does not indicate that Black English is a language, then I am curious to know what definition of language is to be trusted.” Who is to decide what definition of language is to be trusted? This is a very strong argument that supports his facts and causes the audience to stop and think before continuing to read on. He draws his audience in, to believe his argument. To James, this is an issue; White Americans are looking past this and taking the credibility. He claims the standards are “untrustworthy.” Black Americans are no different than white Americans and they deserve the same credibility. Black’s should not feel that they have nothing to learn from the people of a “country that has managed to learn so little.”